Nicolas Cage has shared his thoughts on the current direction of superhero cinema, comparing the Marvel Cinematic Universe to a “well-funded and glorified WWE”. The actor made the remarks during a recent Fan Expo Dallas appearance while discussing how comic book movies have changed over the years. Cage clarified that his comments were made “with love” and explained that he misses the storytelling approach he saw in some of Marvel’s earlier films.
Nicolas Cage Explains His MCU Criticism
Speaking during the fan event, Cage recalled enjoying the early Marvel movies because they connected different characters and explored their individual stories and backstories. However, he said the genre has increasingly focused on elaborate costumes and large-scale battles. Seeing talented actors repeatedly preparing for action sequences reminded him of professional wrestling, leading to his comparison between the MCU and WWE.
His comments were directed at what he sees as a shift in storytelling priorities rather than a criticism of the actors themselves. Cage specifically acknowledged the performers as intelligent and remarkably talented before making his comparison.
Cage Wants Superhero Movies To Focus On Stories
Cage also explained what he would like to see more of in modern superhero projects. For him, the emphasis should return to character-driven storytelling instead of constantly building toward another major fight.
He pointed to his experience with Spider-Noir as an example of the kind of comic book adaptation he enjoys. The series allowed him to explore a mystery and detective story rather than simply moving from one action sequence to another. According to Cage, that investigative approach gave the character and narrative more room to breathe.
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Nicolas Cage Finds Spider-Noir Different From The MCU Formula
Cage stars as the title character in Spider-Noir, a live-action series based on the Marvel character but produced within Sony’s separate Spider-Man universe rather than the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The project presents Spider-Man Noir as a hard-boiled detective working in a black-and-white-inspired world. Cage has previously spoken about embracing classic Hollywood influences while developing his version of the character. During his Fan Expo discussion, he singled out the mystery element as one of the reasons the project appealed to him.
Nicolas Cage's Marvel History Continues With Spider-Noir
Cage has a long history with comic book adaptations, having played Johnny Blaze in the two Ghost Rider films. He also appeared as a voice version of Spider-Man Noir in Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse before taking on the character in live action.
His latest comments therefore come from an actor who has worked extensively within the superhero genre while also maintaining a strong interest in distinctive filmmaking styles. Rather than rejecting comic book stories altogether, Cage's remarks suggest that he wants superhero projects to give greater attention to mystery, character development and storytelling alongside their action.
Final Take
Nicolas Cage has compared the modern MCU to a “well-funded and glorified WWE”, explaining that he misses the character-focused storytelling of earlier Marvel films. He also highlighted Spider-Noir as an example of a superhero story built around mystery and detective elements rather than constant battles.
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